‘Pocono Punisher’ Chris Neild undergoes successful ACL surgery

Neild said in a text message Thursday morning that his surgery went “very well,” and expressed confidence that he will make a strong comeback next season.

The Redskins’ 2011 seventh-round pick out of West Virginia, Neild tore the ACL in his left knee during Washington’s Aug. 13 practice. Coach Mike Shanahan announced the following day that Neild was lost for the season.

The 6-foot-2, 325-pound Neild made the roster as a rookie last season, beating out veteran Anthony Bryant for the backup nose tackle duties. He recorded two sacks in the season opener against the New York Giants and 10 tackles on the season.

This preseason, Neild was competing with Chris Baker for the spot behind Barry Cofield.

Neild said the support from fans has been overwhelming. He passed on a text message of thanks to them:

“Thank you to all the fans out there for your continued support throughout my initial injury and surgery. I’ll keep that with me as I rehab and get prepared for a great year next season. HTTR Sincerely Chris aka Truck aka Pocono Punisher aka Stump aka Fireball Beard Neild.”